Direct laryngoscopy is a diagnostic or therapeutic medical procedure that allows direct visualization of the vocal cords, larynx, and surrounding anatomical structures.

This examination is performed under general anesthesia using a rigid (direct) laryngoscope, which provides access to the deeper parts of the larynx. Direct laryngoscopy can be used for both examination and certain surgical interventions.

When is it performed?
Direct laryngoscopy is recommended in the following cases:
-  Persistent hoarseness or voice loss
-  Suspected laryngeal tumor or cancer
-  Vocal cord nodules, polyps, or papillomas
-  Suspected foreign body in the throat
-  Breathing difficulties or laryngeal narrowing
-  For biopsy (tissue sampling)
-  For therapeutic purposes (removal of polyps, papillomas, or treatment of vocal cords)

How is the procedure performed?
-  The patient is placed under general anesthesia and feels no discomfort.
-  A rigid laryngoscope is gently inserted through the mouth into the larynx.
-  The doctor directly observes the vocal cords and internal structures of the larynx.
-  If necessary, a biopsy is taken, or a lesion such as a polyp, cyst, or papilloma is removed.
-  The procedure usually lasts about 20–40 minutes.

After the procedure
-  Mild sore throat, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing may occur temporarily — this is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
-  The patient can be discharged the same day or the following day.
-  If a biopsy was performed, results are typically available within 5–7 days.
-  It is recommended to rest the voice and throat for several days.

Advantages
-  Direct and accurate visualization of the vocal cords.
-  Ability to take a biopsy from suspicious areas.
-  Diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in one session.
-  Helps preserve voice quality and enables early diagnosis.